Protecting your skin in the summer sun

Taking good care of your skin is important no matter what your age, where you live, or what your skin tone. We typically see tanned skin as a ‘healthy glow’, but a tan is actually the result of skin damage. A layer of your skin has been cooked, as it were. Sunscreen is crucial to keep a person looking young and healthy.

Babies shouldn’t wear sunscreen until they are at least six months old – until then, a wide-brim hat, long-sleeved shirt and pants if the weather’s not too hot, and a seat in the shade are safest. After six months of age, babies and children should wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects from both UVA and UVB rays.

Start with an SPF of at least 30. Apply liberally to face and body, and don’t forget those often-missed spots: tops of ears, back of the neck and legs, and the tops of hands and feet. Even your scalp could use some sunscreen, if you’re not wearing a hat. Check the label to see how long a time period you have before you need to reapply, and don’t forget to reapply after swimming or strenuous activity.

Sun-block is the best choice for the face, since it tends to tan or burn most easily. Sun-block typically stays on the skin better than sunscreen, but there are lots of sunscreens that are water-proof and sweat-proof. There are many different formulas available as well, such as lotions, creams, sprays, mousses, gels, and sticks.

Using sun protection all year round is your best defense against premature aging and the threat of skin cancer.